The Mateers
Pastor Joe, Shawna, Grace, Jack, Ella & Charlotte
At the heart of New City Church is a deep desire for people to experience the life-changing love of Jesus. When God called Pastors Joe and Shawna Mateer to plant a church in Naples, Florida, they knew it wasn’t just about launching services—it was about building a spiritual family and igniting a movement of hope, transformation, and belonging.
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Pastor Joe is known for his genuine connection with people and a passion that radiates through every conversation. His life’s mission has always been to love others well and point them to Jesus, one relationship at a time. From his roots in Bradenton to this new chapter in Naples, he brings a faith-filled vision: that God is ready to transform this city—one person, one story at a time.
The Church We See
When Shawna and I first started dreaming and praying about planting a church, we didn’t picture big services or events. What we kept seeing were people—families, individuals, lives. It felt like God was calling us to a group of people we hadn’t met yet, but we knew they were out there. And when we came to Naples, it felt like we had found the place where those people lived.
We see a church where people who feel far from God can belong before they believe—a place where people are served, lives are changed, and Jesus is glorified.
We see a community where it’s not just about gathering on Sundays, but about doing life together—celebrating together, crying together, and ultimately making a difference together.
That’s the dream God put in our hearts, and we believe Naples is the place where it comes to life.
Statement of Faith
The Bible is Our Authority
We believe the Bible is the foundation of our faith—uniquely inspired by God, completely trustworthy, and the ultimate authority in all matters it addresses. (2 Timothy 3:16,
Proverbs 30:5)
The Trinity
We believe in one eternal God who exists in three distinct persons—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—each fully and equally God, sharing in all the attributes of deity. (Deuteronomy 6:4; Genesis 1:1–3, 1:26; John 1:1–5)
We are God's Creation
God created humanity for relationship with Him, but we turned away through sin, choosing our own path instead. Because of this separation, we are in need of God’s saving grace to restore our connection with Him. (Genesis 1:26–31; Romans 5:12; Colossians 1:21–22)
Salvation is God's Free Gift
Salvation is a gift of God’s grace—it cannot be earned by human effort—and it must be received personally through repentance and faith. (Romans 10:9; 2 Peter 1:3)
Jesus Died for Us
Jesus Christ, the second person of the Trinity, lived a perfect, sinless life and willingly gave Himself as a sacrifice for our sins by dying on the Cross in our place. Through His death and resurrection, He secured salvation for all who place their trust in Him and receive His grace. Jesus rose from the dead, stands as the only mediator between God and humanity, baptizes believers with the Holy Spirit, and will one day return to bring God’s redemptive plan to completion. (2 Corinthians 5:21; Romans 6:23; 1 Corinthians 15:20–22; John 3:16)
The Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit draws hearts to Jesus and empowers believers to grow in their faith and serve within the church. (John 16:7–11; 1 Corinthians 12:4–6; Galatians 5:22–23)
The Church
The church’s role is to glorify God and serve those in need. (Acts 2:46-47, Philippians 2:4)
Heaven & Hell are Real
​In the end, all people will be raised bodily and face judgment. Those who have trusted in Christ will experience eternal fellowship with God. (Revelation 20:11–15;
1 Thessalonians 4:17–18)
FAQs
It is our heart to make sure you feel comfortable walking into church on Sunday. If you have any additional questions about New City Church, please do not hesitate to contact Pastor Joe.
01
Is there childcare?
Yes, we provide childcare through New City Kids, where safety, meaningful relationships, family, and fun are our top priorities. We have a nursery and k-5th children's church.
03
What do I wear at church?
​Nope! There’s no dress code at New City Church. We want you to come just as you are—whether that’s jeans and a t-shirt or your Sunday best. What matters most is that you’re here.
05
Will there be pressure to do anything (give, pray, etc.)
Not at all. At New City Church, you're free to participate at your own pace. Whether it’s giving, praying, or anything else, there’s no pressure—just an open invitation to engage as you feel comfortable. We're just glad you're here.
02
Do I have to be a member to attend?
You don’t have to be a member to join us—we’re always excited to welcome new guests to New City Church!
04
What should I expect from service?
You can expect a warm, welcoming atmosphere, dynamic worship, and a life-giving message rooted in God’s Word.
06
Where is New City Church located?
New City Church is held at Gulf Coast High School located at 7878 Shark Way, Naples, FL 34119.